Saying he had come as a friend of the United States, Pope Benedict urged Americans and their leaders on Wednesday to base their political and social decisions on moral principles and create a more just society.<\/p>\n
In an address to President George W. Bush at the White House on the first full day of his U.S. visit, the pope also called for “patient efforts of international diplomacy to resolve conflicts” and promote progress around the world.<\/p>\n
“I come as a friend, a preacher of the Gospel and one with great respect for this vast pluralistic society,” Benedict said in a speech after Bush welcomed him to the White House at a ceremony that included 21-gun salute.<\/p>\n
Bush cited the role of faith in U.S. life, which the pope had praised in remarks to journalists traveling with him as he crossed the Atlantic.<\/p>\n
“Here in America, you’ll find a nation that welcomes the role of religion in the public square,” Bush said.<\/p>\n